‘Saddened by outcome’ BBC say goodbye to Great British Bake Off

The Great British Bake Off is a British institution, so it seemed only fitting that the much-loved baking show be aired by the BBC – the nation's public service broadcaster, right?

And yet that partnership has officially come to an end after the corporation this week lost rights to the show that captures the imagination of millions every year.

According to reports, it looks like Mary, Paul, Mel and Sue will be setting up the iconic tent elsewhere in the future as Love Productions have failed to reach an agreement with the corporation.

Speaking to The Telegraph, the production company behind the series confirmed the news, saying: "[It is] with deep regret, after more than a year of exhaustive negotiations we have been unable to reach an agreement with the BBC for the renewal of The Great British Bake Off."

"We are really saddened by this outcome because we always wanted to stay on the BBC. As recently as June we were convinced that was what would happen," they explained.
 

After six years working with the BBC, the company sound genuinely disappointed to end their partnership, continuing: "Love Productions would like to thank the BBC for the role it played in making this show such an enormous hit, and the faith they showed in us over the years to develop it."

Emerging reports confirm that the show has officially moved to Channel 4 –  a decision which may not sit well with Mary and Paul who were reportedly keen to remain with the BBC.

What will this mean for Paul's icy blue stare now?